Understanding Aggravated Sexual Assault Charges

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 17-Jul-2014

Any type of sex crime such as sexual assault can result in lifelong damage to your reputation, even if you’re exonerated of the charges. If convicted, you could be facing serious penalties, particularly if the charge is aggravated sexual assault. Since individuals accused of sex crimes are often perceived as guilty by the public before the trial even begins, it’s imperative to arrange for aggressive legal representation with a criminal law firm. A criminal defense attorney will ensure that your legal rights are upheld.

Definition

In Texas, a conviction of sexual assault is a second-degree felony. Aggravated sexual assault is considered a more serious offense and it is classified as a first-degree felony. A prosecutor may decide to charge a suspect with aggravated sexual assault, rather than sexual assault, depending on the facets of the case. For example, aggravated sexual assault may take the form of intentionally or knowingly causing the contact of a sexual organ to another person without that person’s consent, or causing the penetration of a sexual organ without consent. Aggravated sexual assault may involve using actions or verbal threats to cause the victim to believe that death, kidnapping, or serious bodily injury may be imminent. It may also involve the use of a deadly weapon, forcible drugging, or victimizing a person older than 65 or younger than 14.

Penalties

Since this type of sex crime is considered to be a first-degree felony under Texas law, individuals convicted of aggravated sexual assault face severe penalties. Under the Texas Penal Code, a first-degree felony may lead to a fine up to $10,000. Life in prison is a possibility. Alternatively, a convicted felon may face a prison sentence of not more than 99 years or less than five years. However, if the victim is younger than six, there is a minimum term of 25 years. This minimum term also applies if the victim is younger than 14 and a deadly weapon or the use of threats was involved.

When you or a loved one is in need of aggressive legal representation in the Dallas or Plano areas, look no further than the Law Offices Of Jeffrey C. Grass. Our criminal law firm has been vigorously defending the rights of the accused for nearly 20 years. Call today at to schedule a consultation.